China has begun trial operations of the High Intensity Heavy-ion Accelerator Facility (HIAF), a major national research project designed to advance the study of atomic nuclei, nuclear astrophysics and next-generation energy technologies.

Located in Huizhou, Guangdong Province, the facility has completed construction and passed official technological acceptance. Developed by the Institute of Modern Physics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, HIAF features the world's highest pulsed heavy-ion beam intensity and the most precise ring spectrometer for nuclear mass measurements.

The accelerator uses high-speed heavy ions to recreate extreme conditions similar to those found inside stars, supernovae and the early universe, enabling scientists to probe the limits of atomic nuclei and explore the origins of matter. Researchers also plan to pursue the synthesis of new superheavy elements, including elements 119 and 120.

During commissioning, HIAF set new international records for oxygen and bismuth ion beam intensity. Beyond fundamental research, the facility is expected to support spacecraft radiation testing, nuclear energy development, advanced materials research, and heavy-ion cancer therapy.